Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
I hope you are having a day full of love and gratitude! With lots of goodies and full bellies. A long walk and long talks.
We are waiting for our older boys and doing Thanksgiving tomorrow. They are spending the day with their father's family and their grandfather is dying, so I felt it was important to spend as much as time possible with him. Our dinner can wait.
I am working today on all these quilts - I am down to 8 to get done by Christmas (down from 12). Between the business and kids, I don't get much time to sew.
To add even more to my plate - I am doing a crazy sale tomorrow - 40% off everything! Threaded Lines if you want to check us out. So, tomorrow, I will be filling orders in the morning, then Thanksgiving in the evening. I will hopefully finish filling orders on Saturday.
Not that in itself is a bad thing - it is part of business. The quilts are seriously holding me back. Not long now though. I have to be done by Christmas, so it will happen. This week I have made a lot of progress.
I digress though - this was supposed to be about Thanksgiving!
What I am most thankful for today:
1. My family - as cliche as it is. I have truly have the best husband and kids. They are so thoughtful, supportive and just all around wonderful people.
2. Being able to live in the trees. Every single day I look out, listen to the birds, the frogs and crickets. It is truly where I want to be.
3. My planner. I know - simple pleasures.
4. The sun today. It has been so rainy and cloudy here, every little inch of sun is like pure energy!
Happy Thanksgiving - wishing you all the love possible!
one husband......four kids......debt......sewing...... saving......cooking......yoga......sweet......chaos......life......
Thursday, November 22, 2018
Thursday, October 25, 2018
Yes, Yes, I am still alive
I did not name this blog Absolutely Sweet Chaos for nothing!
Not much has been going on really of note. I am working like a mad woman - quilts, fabric store, chauffeur, shows, accounting, marketing, etc. etc. And the cutting - I cut fabric every single day - every day. Not for anything, just cutting into smaller pieces - 3 yards, fat quarters, 1/2 yard, 9" x 12", you name it, I cut it.
The kids are doing good at school. Theater for my daughter is something to be desired. Makes us long for the other theater with all the problems. But academically, they are doing really good. We just finished the 1st 9 weeks and all As and Bs. I could not ask for more. The transition from homeschooling was pretty smooth. Our son still wants to homeschool, but he understands why we are doing this. That is the only real problem, he is struggling to find friends, but this has always been an issue of his.
Work - Work, work, work, work. I have 9, possibly 11 quilts to get done by Christmas. This is still what is left from "finishing up". Lord, I cannot wait to be done with these quilts. I have refused more than I count. No, I do not want to do it as business no matter how many I can get. It is just too much work.
The Fabric Store is slow going, but building. Designers are blogging about me and a few others link me in their "where you can buy" area. I am going to be sponsoring a Quilt show in Dallas and here close to me at the beginning of next year. Lots of marketing, like most of my time is spent marketing. Writing, take pictures, thinking of new and interesting topics. It is WORK! I have a whole new respect for those in advertising and marketing.
It has done nothing but rain here. Like every day. We have had almost no sun and it is getting to me a bit. I feel a little down, but nothing a bout of sun could not help. I need to start taking my Vitamin D.
Anyway, I have stopped and started a million times. I will post pictures of my little shop soon.
I am on and reading from time to time. Love you all!
Not much has been going on really of note. I am working like a mad woman - quilts, fabric store, chauffeur, shows, accounting, marketing, etc. etc. And the cutting - I cut fabric every single day - every day. Not for anything, just cutting into smaller pieces - 3 yards, fat quarters, 1/2 yard, 9" x 12", you name it, I cut it.
The kids are doing good at school. Theater for my daughter is something to be desired. Makes us long for the other theater with all the problems. But academically, they are doing really good. We just finished the 1st 9 weeks and all As and Bs. I could not ask for more. The transition from homeschooling was pretty smooth. Our son still wants to homeschool, but he understands why we are doing this. That is the only real problem, he is struggling to find friends, but this has always been an issue of his.
Work - Work, work, work, work. I have 9, possibly 11 quilts to get done by Christmas. This is still what is left from "finishing up". Lord, I cannot wait to be done with these quilts. I have refused more than I count. No, I do not want to do it as business no matter how many I can get. It is just too much work.
The Fabric Store is slow going, but building. Designers are blogging about me and a few others link me in their "where you can buy" area. I am going to be sponsoring a Quilt show in Dallas and here close to me at the beginning of next year. Lots of marketing, like most of my time is spent marketing. Writing, take pictures, thinking of new and interesting topics. It is WORK! I have a whole new respect for those in advertising and marketing.
It has done nothing but rain here. Like every day. We have had almost no sun and it is getting to me a bit. I feel a little down, but nothing a bout of sun could not help. I need to start taking my Vitamin D.
Anyway, I have stopped and started a million times. I will post pictures of my little shop soon.
I am on and reading from time to time. Love you all!
Tuesday, September 4, 2018
The business of life..
Things are better, somewhat. No rest for the weary. A double sided business and busy teens who don't drive, don't leave much time for grieving.
Saturday, I was a basketball case. I could think right, crying spells. My eyes were so puffy they hurt and crusted with salt that night.
On Sunday, I made myself not cry so I could rest my eyes. I got to work - deadline on a quilt.
Monday, we went to my office and built shelves, rearranged the fabric and began cutting the cork fabric into manageable chunks. Cork Fabric is HEAVY!! Each color is 60 meter, so it took a lot of effort and we only made it through 3 out of 9 colors before calling it quits. Needless to say, I was too exhausted to thing about it, BUT, when we got home I got a call from the funeral home.
Because she is being cremated and the next of kin are her children - all children must consent. Fine for me and my sister, but my brother is in jail. Brilliant. So, my mother is hanging out in a refrigerator waiting to be cremated. I just shake my head.
Now, my mother died Friday around 5 pm. She lived in an assisted living building and had her own apartment and could leave when she wanted (she just had to tell them). They did not find out right away - obviously, but they also did not inform anyone in the family. The first we heard was my aunt being called from a funeral home asking if she wanted her sister embalmed.
Sigh. This is typical of what happened around my mother.
So, we all just found out on Saturday. Sunday, she was transported to the next state, and a memorial service was held this morning BEFORE she is even cremated. There was no way I could make it, but I doubt I would have gone anyway. That whole side of the family is REALLY mad at me and I just did not want to deal with it.
When my sister told me all this, I asked who was doing flowers and she said they were just going to pick some up at the grocery store and arrange them that morning. Oh.....My......Goodness......
Sigh, No matter what she had done to me, she is my mother and she deserved to have a beautiful memorial service. So, I bought the flowers for her service.
Saturday, I was a basketball case. I could think right, crying spells. My eyes were so puffy they hurt and crusted with salt that night.
On Sunday, I made myself not cry so I could rest my eyes. I got to work - deadline on a quilt.
Monday, we went to my office and built shelves, rearranged the fabric and began cutting the cork fabric into manageable chunks. Cork Fabric is HEAVY!! Each color is 60 meter, so it took a lot of effort and we only made it through 3 out of 9 colors before calling it quits. Needless to say, I was too exhausted to thing about it, BUT, when we got home I got a call from the funeral home.
Because she is being cremated and the next of kin are her children - all children must consent. Fine for me and my sister, but my brother is in jail. Brilliant. So, my mother is hanging out in a refrigerator waiting to be cremated. I just shake my head.
Now, my mother died Friday around 5 pm. She lived in an assisted living building and had her own apartment and could leave when she wanted (she just had to tell them). They did not find out right away - obviously, but they also did not inform anyone in the family. The first we heard was my aunt being called from a funeral home asking if she wanted her sister embalmed.
Sigh. This is typical of what happened around my mother.
So, we all just found out on Saturday. Sunday, she was transported to the next state, and a memorial service was held this morning BEFORE she is even cremated. There was no way I could make it, but I doubt I would have gone anyway. That whole side of the family is REALLY mad at me and I just did not want to deal with it.
When my sister told me all this, I asked who was doing flowers and she said they were just going to pick some up at the grocery store and arrange them that morning. Oh.....My......Goodness......
Sigh, No matter what she had done to me, she is my mother and she deserved to have a beautiful memorial service. So, I bought the flowers for her service.
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| Picture of what I ordered - Large |
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| Picture of what I ordered - small |
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| What they got - large |
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| What they got - small |
Needless to say, I am disappointed. They all said they were beautiful, but these are the worst arrangements I have ever seen and I am not at all happy with them. And a mirrored vase for a funeral? A simple white vase would have been fine. We don't need disco mirrors at a funeral. And what are those green things sticking out everywhere? It is just awful!
What's done is done though. If the ceremony could have been delayed a couple of days, I am sure it would have been better. But my aunt is like that - whatever is best for her. She has always been this way.
Today, my sister asked if I want anything. Last I knew, my sister was getting everything of my mother's, not that there was much to get. I don't care. I told her I just wanted a little something for a memory - did not matter what. She knows how much I love furniture, so without my prompting, she said all the furniture was gone. My heart dropped. Most of the furniture she has was my Meme's and we (my siblings and I) were supposed to get those pieces. My aunt has already gone through all my mother's things before my sister even had a chance.
That is how my aunt is.
My Meme is my mother's aunt that really raised her and who I recognize as my grandmother, although she was a Great Aunt. She died in 1994. My mother asked me when Meme died what I wanted and I said the record player. It is one of those piece of furniture turntables with the speakers and everything. At that moment, my mother said yes. Then, when we went to pick up everything, she turned to me and said, " You really didn't think you were going to get that record player did you?" I was crushed. Years later, she gave it me - after her dog had chewed through the speaker cloth and there was water damage to the wood. I took it anyway. Damaged or not, it was what my Meme and I did - dance and sing around this record player. I have refinished it and the turntable still works!
Now, we were told that the pieces she had left - a coffee table, a dresser, a couple of chairs, 2 end tables - would be ours to divide up. All of it is gone. There were boxes of pictures, all gone. It even had our baby things in there - all gone.
Funerals on that side of the family are awful - so much bitterness and talking behind backs loud enough that you hear the hatefulness being said, grabbing at the possessions that are left. I am so done with it all.
What's done is done though. If the ceremony could have been delayed a couple of days, I am sure it would have been better. But my aunt is like that - whatever is best for her. She has always been this way.
Today, my sister asked if I want anything. Last I knew, my sister was getting everything of my mother's, not that there was much to get. I don't care. I told her I just wanted a little something for a memory - did not matter what. She knows how much I love furniture, so without my prompting, she said all the furniture was gone. My heart dropped. Most of the furniture she has was my Meme's and we (my siblings and I) were supposed to get those pieces. My aunt has already gone through all my mother's things before my sister even had a chance.
That is how my aunt is.
My Meme is my mother's aunt that really raised her and who I recognize as my grandmother, although she was a Great Aunt. She died in 1994. My mother asked me when Meme died what I wanted and I said the record player. It is one of those piece of furniture turntables with the speakers and everything. At that moment, my mother said yes. Then, when we went to pick up everything, she turned to me and said, " You really didn't think you were going to get that record player did you?" I was crushed. Years later, she gave it me - after her dog had chewed through the speaker cloth and there was water damage to the wood. I took it anyway. Damaged or not, it was what my Meme and I did - dance and sing around this record player. I have refinished it and the turntable still works!
Now, we were told that the pieces she had left - a coffee table, a dresser, a couple of chairs, 2 end tables - would be ours to divide up. All of it is gone. There were boxes of pictures, all gone. It even had our baby things in there - all gone.
Funerals on that side of the family are awful - so much bitterness and talking behind backs loud enough that you hear the hatefulness being said, grabbing at the possessions that are left. I am so done with it all.
It is so bad for me that our will even goes over all of this - how no one is enter our premises but the executor and things are to be sold and yada-yada. It is spelled out specifically - all because of how this family is so freaking crazy!
Saturday, September 1, 2018
In times of death...
My mother died.
I have not spoken with her in about 4 years, though I knew about her health issues, when she made someone mad, when my brother stole from her, when she was good, when she was not, when she made a nurse upset and when she said something nice. My sister still was involved and it was hard for her when I opted out, so I was her only support with a mother such as ours.
I honestly, did not think I would take it so hard. This woman who beat me until I bled. Gave me lifelong scars and disfunctional joints. The woman who told me I was worthless and would never find someone to love me. The woman who put extra chocolate in my hot chocolate when I could not taste it because I was also eating oreos. The woman who would play Scrabble with me until 1:00 am and make me amazing costumes for Halloween.
I honestly thought I would feel relief. Relief from her hot and cold, nice and screaming, never knowing what mood or if she would attack me or hug me. From her pain, from the awful depression she felt. From the man that would beat her until he came when she was only 12-13 (sick fucker!!).
But I don't. I am so sad I cannot breath. My husband hates her, he only saw the bad. I remember times of fierce love and maybe a desperate longing for a real mother that could pay the electric bill and keep food in the house.
I go through moments of feeling ok with it and times that I just cry and cry. If she were still alive, would I try to reconnect? Not at all. I just could not take the pain of her any more and I am truly at peace with that.
But a person died. A person that carried me around on a pillow because I was so sick as a baby. This person that gave me life. So, although I decided that I could not circle in the same realm as her, she was still my mother. Good or bad, she was my mother. And she is now gone. I honestly never knew how bad this would hurt - never.
I have not spoken with her in about 4 years, though I knew about her health issues, when she made someone mad, when my brother stole from her, when she was good, when she was not, when she made a nurse upset and when she said something nice. My sister still was involved and it was hard for her when I opted out, so I was her only support with a mother such as ours.
I honestly, did not think I would take it so hard. This woman who beat me until I bled. Gave me lifelong scars and disfunctional joints. The woman who told me I was worthless and would never find someone to love me. The woman who put extra chocolate in my hot chocolate when I could not taste it because I was also eating oreos. The woman who would play Scrabble with me until 1:00 am and make me amazing costumes for Halloween.
I honestly thought I would feel relief. Relief from her hot and cold, nice and screaming, never knowing what mood or if she would attack me or hug me. From her pain, from the awful depression she felt. From the man that would beat her until he came when she was only 12-13 (sick fucker!!).
But I don't. I am so sad I cannot breath. My husband hates her, he only saw the bad. I remember times of fierce love and maybe a desperate longing for a real mother that could pay the electric bill and keep food in the house.
I go through moments of feeling ok with it and times that I just cry and cry. If she were still alive, would I try to reconnect? Not at all. I just could not take the pain of her any more and I am truly at peace with that.
But a person died. A person that carried me around on a pillow because I was so sick as a baby. This person that gave me life. So, although I decided that I could not circle in the same realm as her, she was still my mother. Good or bad, she was my mother. And she is now gone. I honestly never knew how bad this would hurt - never.
Saturday, August 25, 2018
Quilts, Quilts and more Quilts
On Friday, I made a decision to stop making quilts except for very special people. I am going to finish the work I have accepted and then taper off. I have some clients that are good, repeat business, give me creative license, etc. They are pretty much the only ones I will continue to work with.
Now that I have started the fabric business, it really is more than a full time job and I want to give it my full attention. I need to be creative to make samples of the fabrics I carry and get really interactive with my customers. I cannot do that with 8-10 quilts on order all the time.
So, I have one more customer that I am meeting in a couple of weeks and that will be the last NEW customer I accept. She lucked out! LOL
Here is some of the work I have been doing lately - I don't think I have posted in a while. This is not all, but all I have pictures of. I am still underwater, but closing customs is going to help me climb out of a very large hole!
Now that I have started the fabric business, it really is more than a full time job and I want to give it my full attention. I need to be creative to make samples of the fabrics I carry and get really interactive with my customers. I cannot do that with 8-10 quilts on order all the time.
So, I have one more customer that I am meeting in a couple of weeks and that will be the last NEW customer I accept. She lucked out! LOL
Here is some of the work I have been doing lately - I don't think I have posted in a while. This is not all, but all I have pictures of. I am still underwater, but closing customs is going to help me climb out of a very large hole!
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| Brother 1 - childhood |
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| Brother 2 - childhood |
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| Mug Rugs with cork |
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| Senior Key fobs - a generic color |
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| Baby quilt - I bartered for hair cuts |
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| This is the complete baby set |
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| Teen Driving |
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| Brother 1 |
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| Brother 2 |
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| Adorable trucker hat! I have to hand sew them, but they are too cute! |
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| Senior Quilt |
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| Custom key fobs |
Saturday, August 18, 2018
Yes, we are all alive
WOW! It has been more than a whirlwind. Like, I didn't get to go to the restroom when I wanted to kind of busy from sun-up to sun-down.
It is a long, probably pretty boring story, so I will give you an overall synopsis. I am not sure how much I will be on here going forward, but I hope more than this past month.
Business
Well, we got the website going and there is a steady stream of visitors. It takes a while to start getting the sales and they are coming slowly, but surely. Funny, all my customers were from all over the US, but not Texas until yesterday. Someone from Texas finally made a purchase. We thought that was funny since before my business was 100% from Texas and local to Houston at that.
We decided to get an office/studio for several reasons -
So, right now, I am running both businesses. Yep, both - making quilts, key fobs AND selling fabric. Selling fabric is harder than you think. The marketing alone takes up MOST of my time. Cutting, folding, designing for pictures, taking pictures, editing the pictures, loading to the website (LONG, LONG process), then posting to social media. Just one collection takes 2-3 days. That is about 15-18 coordinating fabrics. When I get an order, the prepping takes me maybe 5-10 minutes.
It is an exciting business though - I get to see all the fabric before it is released, talking with all reps and the manufacturers - both in the US and international. It moves so fast! I mean seriously fast. Working both business is not going to work long term.
Homeschool
I decided to not homeschool anymore. Well, we decided. I am burnt out, like seriously burnt out. Maybe if I had farmed out more of the subjects, it would not have been so bad, but the thought of of homeschooling right now makes me want to cry.
They are going to public school. To get in the school closest to us (and better than the one we are allotted to), we needed to establish residency in the area. The office did that.
My daughter, since she was going into the 10th grade, had to take final exams for both the fall and spring semesters of ALL the classes - so 14 exams. It was a nightmare! After all that, they did not accept any electives at all. We opted to not do the science exams because they were not from the science we did and she did not pass the Algebra 1 exam because they focused almost completely on slope and with Saxon, you do not learn slope until the very end of Algebra 1 and really go into it with Algebra 2. So, my daughter can divide 4 and 5 variables into 5 to 6 variables, take lateral surface area from a circle, and calculate complex probability problems, but cannot do slope yet. I cried about that - felt like a failure, but no. I am not. She is not. We just studied math in a different progression.
Needless to say, she is back in Algebra 1 with her younger brother. My older son who is in college says that he looked at the problems I had her doing and that is what he was working on in college calculus.
Anyway, she will be in Freshman Pre-Ap Math and Science, but Sophomore AP and Pre-AP English and History. Her Senior year will be full of electives. We could have done summer school to "catch up", but this school district requires 4 years of math and I did not want her taking 2 maths at one time. Science, I am ok with, but not math - it is too much. She can enjoy high school, have some fun. We are on the track for Dual Credits, so the counselor and I both think she will have almost one year of college by the time she graduates. So, that will basically catch her up.
As for my son - nothing. They completely start over in 9th grade and it is does not matter what you have done before - so he had nothing!
Home
Our HOA was on us like crazy, so we had to scramble and get our front yard finished. It was so much work. Then, they got on to us about our fence - we did not get approval first, so we had to jump through those hoops as well.
My daughter started Driving School, so that is every single day for 3 weeks - really stressful because it takes up a whole morning. It is 35 minutes away - the closest school. And no, me teaching her was not an option - burn out more than you can believe. Then, she had to get permit from the DPS - Oh, my goodness. Hours and hours and hours waiting. I told her when she gets her drivers license, we are taking her out of school for the day.
We have not been at home for a full day in I don't know how long. Seriously. Next weekend, I said we are not leaving this house - not for grocery shopping, not for a hardware store run, not to take the kids anywhere, not to meet with friends, nothing, nowhere. We. Are. Staying. Home!
I had a birthday somewhere along in there. It was a blur. I don't do birthday celebrations, so it was pretty much like any other day. I am 45.
Alright, that quilt won't quilt itself. I wanted to get this one done today, then I will get paid! I hope you all are having a great weekend!
It is a long, probably pretty boring story, so I will give you an overall synopsis. I am not sure how much I will be on here going forward, but I hope more than this past month.
Business
Well, we got the website going and there is a steady stream of visitors. It takes a while to start getting the sales and they are coming slowly, but surely. Funny, all my customers were from all over the US, but not Texas until yesterday. Someone from Texas finally made a purchase. We thought that was funny since before my business was 100% from Texas and local to Houston at that.
We decided to get an office/studio for several reasons -
- Since the business address MUST be on the website, we did not want our home address out there for everyone.
- We needed to establish an address in the school district (see homeschool)
- We needed space for storage of all fabric as our home was not going to work. Fabric needs a cool, dry place with no light, if possible.
- For the other side of my business, customers were coming to the house while we were not here and one tried to get in while my kids were here.
So, right now, I am running both businesses. Yep, both - making quilts, key fobs AND selling fabric. Selling fabric is harder than you think. The marketing alone takes up MOST of my time. Cutting, folding, designing for pictures, taking pictures, editing the pictures, loading to the website (LONG, LONG process), then posting to social media. Just one collection takes 2-3 days. That is about 15-18 coordinating fabrics. When I get an order, the prepping takes me maybe 5-10 minutes.
It is an exciting business though - I get to see all the fabric before it is released, talking with all reps and the manufacturers - both in the US and international. It moves so fast! I mean seriously fast. Working both business is not going to work long term.
Homeschool
I decided to not homeschool anymore. Well, we decided. I am burnt out, like seriously burnt out. Maybe if I had farmed out more of the subjects, it would not have been so bad, but the thought of of homeschooling right now makes me want to cry.
They are going to public school. To get in the school closest to us (and better than the one we are allotted to), we needed to establish residency in the area. The office did that.
My daughter, since she was going into the 10th grade, had to take final exams for both the fall and spring semesters of ALL the classes - so 14 exams. It was a nightmare! After all that, they did not accept any electives at all. We opted to not do the science exams because they were not from the science we did and she did not pass the Algebra 1 exam because they focused almost completely on slope and with Saxon, you do not learn slope until the very end of Algebra 1 and really go into it with Algebra 2. So, my daughter can divide 4 and 5 variables into 5 to 6 variables, take lateral surface area from a circle, and calculate complex probability problems, but cannot do slope yet. I cried about that - felt like a failure, but no. I am not. She is not. We just studied math in a different progression.
Needless to say, she is back in Algebra 1 with her younger brother. My older son who is in college says that he looked at the problems I had her doing and that is what he was working on in college calculus.
Anyway, she will be in Freshman Pre-Ap Math and Science, but Sophomore AP and Pre-AP English and History. Her Senior year will be full of electives. We could have done summer school to "catch up", but this school district requires 4 years of math and I did not want her taking 2 maths at one time. Science, I am ok with, but not math - it is too much. She can enjoy high school, have some fun. We are on the track for Dual Credits, so the counselor and I both think she will have almost one year of college by the time she graduates. So, that will basically catch her up.
As for my son - nothing. They completely start over in 9th grade and it is does not matter what you have done before - so he had nothing!
Home
Our HOA was on us like crazy, so we had to scramble and get our front yard finished. It was so much work. Then, they got on to us about our fence - we did not get approval first, so we had to jump through those hoops as well.
My daughter started Driving School, so that is every single day for 3 weeks - really stressful because it takes up a whole morning. It is 35 minutes away - the closest school. And no, me teaching her was not an option - burn out more than you can believe. Then, she had to get permit from the DPS - Oh, my goodness. Hours and hours and hours waiting. I told her when she gets her drivers license, we are taking her out of school for the day.
We have not been at home for a full day in I don't know how long. Seriously. Next weekend, I said we are not leaving this house - not for grocery shopping, not for a hardware store run, not to take the kids anywhere, not to meet with friends, nothing, nowhere. We. Are. Staying. Home!
I had a birthday somewhere along in there. It was a blur. I don't do birthday celebrations, so it was pretty much like any other day. I am 45.
Alright, that quilt won't quilt itself. I wanted to get this one done today, then I will get paid! I hope you all are having a great weekend!
Monday, July 23, 2018
Slowly disappearing
We started our fabric business. It is taking up a lot of my time, but I LOVE being able to look at fabric for a reason! LOL
www.threadedlines.com
I specialize in Modern and very Classic Fabrics - timeless ones - like linens and canvas. They work well with modern prints and I also have a deep love for them. I only carry designer brands at this point.
Let me know what I need to improve on with the website!
We are putting the kids back in public school. I go to register them next week and they start at the end of August. I am not worried about them academically, but my son gets bullied everywhere he goes - it is sad really. Even at a programming camp - C++ programming, a boy there slapped him across the face every morning. This is a place where EVERYONE was a geek and I do mean everyone. I may have to put my son in self-defense class.
T-shirt Quilts are coming in like crazy, but it is fine because it is keeping a steady stream of money coming in.
Anything I make other than fabric and notions are for sale on my Facebook Page.
I am a little tired this week because I had to enter all the products on the website and get it ready plus run kids to camp. I can't believe I am saying this, but I cannot wait until the school year starts and we get a routine going. We are all over the place!
Oh, one more thing - I got an office - really it is an executive office (you can get them cheap!), but it acts as a place to meet customers and store the fabric. It was a have-to really. Customers were showing up unannounced while my kids were here alone. The neighborhood has a no business policy and this HOA is WAY worse than the last one. Plus, I wanted to put my business on Google, but you have to use an address and I did not want my house up for the world to see.
So, lots of changes!
I have to run pick up my daughter - I am trying to keep up with all of you. Miss you bunches!
www.threadedlines.com
I specialize in Modern and very Classic Fabrics - timeless ones - like linens and canvas. They work well with modern prints and I also have a deep love for them. I only carry designer brands at this point.
Let me know what I need to improve on with the website!
We are putting the kids back in public school. I go to register them next week and they start at the end of August. I am not worried about them academically, but my son gets bullied everywhere he goes - it is sad really. Even at a programming camp - C++ programming, a boy there slapped him across the face every morning. This is a place where EVERYONE was a geek and I do mean everyone. I may have to put my son in self-defense class.
T-shirt Quilts are coming in like crazy, but it is fine because it is keeping a steady stream of money coming in.
Anything I make other than fabric and notions are for sale on my Facebook Page.
I am a little tired this week because I had to enter all the products on the website and get it ready plus run kids to camp. I can't believe I am saying this, but I cannot wait until the school year starts and we get a routine going. We are all over the place!
Oh, one more thing - I got an office - really it is an executive office (you can get them cheap!), but it acts as a place to meet customers and store the fabric. It was a have-to really. Customers were showing up unannounced while my kids were here alone. The neighborhood has a no business policy and this HOA is WAY worse than the last one. Plus, I wanted to put my business on Google, but you have to use an address and I did not want my house up for the world to see.
So, lots of changes!
I have to run pick up my daughter - I am trying to keep up with all of you. Miss you bunches!
Wednesday, July 4, 2018
Friday, June 29, 2018
5 Things Friday
I am joining Carla, simply from a lack of what to write about. It is the summer doldrums for sure.
1. Today, I need to finish the top of a T-shirt Quilt I am working on. This is one of two for a customer - the other one is ready to be sandwiched, so it would be nice to get these both done at the same time. The customer is picking up next Saturday, so I need to get moving on this. Overall - this is two out of eight quilts that are on order right now.
2. Whole House Generator. We put in a generator this week. It was an expense, but the peace of mind is tremendous! I never knew! We live kind of out in the middle of nowhere and we have our own transformer. If our transformer blows in a major storm - aka hurricane, we are the last people on the list. Electric companies repair the lines with the gas stations and grocery stores first, then the most people. The individuals will be last. We have 2 freezers and a fridge freezer, but beyond that, we cannot run water or toilets without electricity. Everything is on a pump. Hopefully, we won't have to use it, but I have lived through 3 hurricanes and lost power every time.
Something new we learned, it is actually a law here that if a generator is installed, it has to feed the total amount of electricity that feeds the house. You cannot break it up unless you split the breaker box. Of course, it is up to us how much we use it when the electricity goes out. It will run on our propane and the tank we have can run the full amount of electricity for about 4 days. We can run it longer, obviously, if we cut down on the usage. So, limited air conditioning, limited plug ins, etc. The main thing is the freezers, the pumps for water and sewage, charging cell phones and lights to see at night. Of course, if it is hot, we will run the air conditioning, but MUCH less.
3. The Saharan Desert is sending dust and sand our way. Allergies will be a high. There will be a haziness to our area and we were told to stay inside if possible. Although the sunsets are supposed to be tremendous. So, I guess we are not working on the yard this weekend - we will see though.
4. This is how boring we are right now - I cannot think of even 5 things to say! LOL Oh, My son did well on his first month with a retainer. Only 2 more appointments and then no more orthodontist! YEAH!! A trip there every single month for over 2 years. I am not sure what I am going to do with myself now.
5. Just now, a red bird was knocking on my window - I looked it up - it is a summer tanager - part of the cardinal family. I don't doubt it. Everyone thinks cardinals are so beautiful and lovely, but they are the biggest pain in the ass! They knock on our windows all day and hard too! They are known to break windows! We put these metal little bug sculptures (dollar store) in the windows and it helped at first, but not now. They really are the the dumbest birds. Supposedly, they are attacking another male that is encroaching on their territory. They see a reflection of themselves. Dumb birds!
Ok, I finally figured it out a few things to tell you! I am off to the races! Have a great day!
1. Today, I need to finish the top of a T-shirt Quilt I am working on. This is one of two for a customer - the other one is ready to be sandwiched, so it would be nice to get these both done at the same time. The customer is picking up next Saturday, so I need to get moving on this. Overall - this is two out of eight quilts that are on order right now.
2. Whole House Generator. We put in a generator this week. It was an expense, but the peace of mind is tremendous! I never knew! We live kind of out in the middle of nowhere and we have our own transformer. If our transformer blows in a major storm - aka hurricane, we are the last people on the list. Electric companies repair the lines with the gas stations and grocery stores first, then the most people. The individuals will be last. We have 2 freezers and a fridge freezer, but beyond that, we cannot run water or toilets without electricity. Everything is on a pump. Hopefully, we won't have to use it, but I have lived through 3 hurricanes and lost power every time.
Something new we learned, it is actually a law here that if a generator is installed, it has to feed the total amount of electricity that feeds the house. You cannot break it up unless you split the breaker box. Of course, it is up to us how much we use it when the electricity goes out. It will run on our propane and the tank we have can run the full amount of electricity for about 4 days. We can run it longer, obviously, if we cut down on the usage. So, limited air conditioning, limited plug ins, etc. The main thing is the freezers, the pumps for water and sewage, charging cell phones and lights to see at night. Of course, if it is hot, we will run the air conditioning, but MUCH less.
3. The Saharan Desert is sending dust and sand our way. Allergies will be a high. There will be a haziness to our area and we were told to stay inside if possible. Although the sunsets are supposed to be tremendous. So, I guess we are not working on the yard this weekend - we will see though.
4. This is how boring we are right now - I cannot think of even 5 things to say! LOL Oh, My son did well on his first month with a retainer. Only 2 more appointments and then no more orthodontist! YEAH!! A trip there every single month for over 2 years. I am not sure what I am going to do with myself now.
5. Just now, a red bird was knocking on my window - I looked it up - it is a summer tanager - part of the cardinal family. I don't doubt it. Everyone thinks cardinals are so beautiful and lovely, but they are the biggest pain in the ass! They knock on our windows all day and hard too! They are known to break windows! We put these metal little bug sculptures (dollar store) in the windows and it helped at first, but not now. They really are the the dumbest birds. Supposedly, they are attacking another male that is encroaching on their territory. They see a reflection of themselves. Dumb birds!
Ok, I finally figured it out a few things to tell you! I am off to the races! Have a great day!
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Rainy days
We all move a little slower on rainy days.
Even though I didn't sleep in much - I have not started yet, enjoying that next cup of coffee! And I think by posting today (when there is not much to say) I am avoiding getting started! LOL
Business
Even though I didn't sleep in much - I have not started yet, enjoying that next cup of coffee! And I think by posting today (when there is not much to say) I am avoiding getting started! LOL
Business
- 7 quilt orders are in house! For the most part, they are small though - 20 Tshirts or less, so they should go pretty quickly. I have the fabric for the backing and borders ordered and Joann's is having a buy one get one for thread starting tomorrow.
- I have decided to keep the business open, but not tell anyone. I am going to let it go until we get a little more settled. I will sew when I want, get on top of my health, get the kids settled, etc.
- In saying that, I am dying to make some of these bags I have patterns for - I am IN LOVE with all these bags!
- We have officially stopped for the summer. I wanted to give them a break and I needed it as well. Theater was crazy and is not over just yet, plus we have well check visits and camps in July as well as driving school for the whole of August.
- We have made the decision on how we are going forward with homeschool. They will be going to public school. -L will be going into the 10th grade - she is too smart for words, and -K will be going into the 9th. 4 more years and we are done. We will probably still talk about the logic during dinner or something - I think it is important for them and they will not get it in high school. I won't take a grade.
- Yard work, Yard work, Yard work. We spread out those crushed concrete piles to make the parking space/drive area. It still needs some work to level it, but the rains came and the attachment piece for the lawn mower that will help with that has not come in yet. It is looking better and better.
- Really, that is it - it is all about the yard and since we have nothing but rain this week, not much is going on. Hopefully, it will clear up this weekend and we can get some stuff done. The soft ground might make it easier to pick up those rocks!
- I am currently working through 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. I read it years ago and it worked wonders for me in business. I am looking to transfer it to my personal life a bit. I think the stress of the past couple of years have made me retreat to a more emotional self than I would like to be.
- I am making sure I refill my water cup during the day. I have a problem with getting dehydrated while working (causing dry eyes), so I am actively working on getting myself more water throughout the day.
- I am not wearing myself out in one day. It is definitely better this slower pace. I can blog, I can answer emails, do a little maintenance cleaning daily, read a bit and get some work done. I just need to add exercise and this balance will be a good one!
Sunday, June 17, 2018
Our Yard
This is a picture of our driveway from the road. What I had hoped to catch was all the rocks that were left by the builder all along the sides of this driveway. I have hated it from the beginning. Since we have gotten a notice from the HOA, I thought I was going to have to hire someone to deal with all of this, but since talking with neighbors, we decided to tackle it ourselves, but make a commitment to do so.
So, the kids and I will start removing the rocks and dumping them to shore up the gravel drive to the shed. It is not bad, but it will reinforce some thinner areas and make a little curve area for easier backing up.
Along the driveway on both sides, we are taking out some of the brush - about 10 to 15ft on each side - leveling it out, laying sod and planting Natchez Crepe Myrtles to line the drive. This all will take some time, but I think as long as we are actively working on it - the HOA will leave us alone.
This picture is from where the driveway starts to curve toward the house. The left catches a tiny bit of the gravel drive to the shed and the right is another area that we are creating a gravel drive for parking and backing up.
The area between the house and shed currently has 3 Natchez Crepe Myrtles and a Lemon Tree. It will be sodded, but we are working on the dry creek beds. All LOT of water comes off the house, shed and front of the property, so we had to deal with that. We did not want a rain fall to wash out the yard over and over, nor did we want standing water, so we made a rather long dry creek bed that will ultimately end up in a small pond, but right now, it is just going to the back of the property.
Here is a closer view of the dry creek beds. Both come together in from of the fence. Our plan is to line them with rocks. After we get the driveway done, this is what we will focus on. It will take time laying out the rocks because they have to be laid one by one pretty much.
Our flower beds have hibiscus, bottle brushes, mexican grass and one other kind I always forget the name of. It is a light green bushy type. Eventually, we will also put a fire pit and seating in this area - so some grass, but not too much.
This is the side of the driveway that is getting graveled as well. They dumped the crushed concrete on Friday. College Boy and my youngest got out there on Saturday and got one pile spread out. It is rainy today, so the pile by the basketball goal is still there. It looks so much better though - clean up the area tremendously!
Now that Theater is over, our weekends are back, so hopefully we can actually get some work done!
Friday, June 15, 2018
Theater Week is always crazy
It seems like the tech week of theater is always so hectic! Coming from an extremely organized person - there is no reason for it, but since I am in not charge (and do not want to be) and I am along for the ride!
The beginning was fine - drop her off, pick her up.
Then Tuesday hit, 30 minutes late letting them out.
Wednesday, 1.5 hours late letting them out - which meant us waiting in a parked car until almost 11 p.m. at which point, they told us - "oh, yeah - we know tomorrow is opening day, but they need these special shoes, shorts and tank. Plus period hair and make-up AND be have all that and be here 1 hour earlier."
Which meant, I was up watching you tube videos to learn how to do hair from the 1910-1920s. Did I tell you we have sucky internet! So, a 15 minute video takes 40 minutes. Yeah, fun.
On top of that, I had a customer coming Thursday morning and it was our planned day to go see the play!
We got the stuff (4 hours to find!), 2 hours for hair because I seriously cannot hair - I can only do a ponytail, no time for lunch, she was late getting there because it is 1 hour away and we had to drive into town to get the things, then back home for her to get ready, then back to the theater.
The play was great though! Much Ado About Nothing set in the 1910's. The teens were cute. They did the full play, but are shorting it to 30 minutes for a Shakepeare festival this summer.
You can tell we are not really theater people. However, we are trying to suck it up for our daughter. This is her last play with them, since she is going to public school next year, she will do theater with them. MUCH closer, MUCH easier, MUCH more organized.
This current school is really a mess. It is hurting them. I was not the only upset parent - LOTS of talk going on about it last night.
Today, we are dropping her off and picking her up. I will do her hair, but now that I know how it is going, it will be easier.
We are having crushed concrete and dirt dropped off today to making a little parking area/turn around area off the driveway. A customer is coming and the gas company is coming to give us an estimate for a generator. We are also meeting friends for dinner. Poor DH has only been home to sleep this week.
Well, I am off to the races - I hear the load of dirt coming up the drive!
The beginning was fine - drop her off, pick her up.
Then Tuesday hit, 30 minutes late letting them out.
Wednesday, 1.5 hours late letting them out - which meant us waiting in a parked car until almost 11 p.m. at which point, they told us - "oh, yeah - we know tomorrow is opening day, but they need these special shoes, shorts and tank. Plus period hair and make-up AND be have all that and be here 1 hour earlier."
Which meant, I was up watching you tube videos to learn how to do hair from the 1910-1920s. Did I tell you we have sucky internet! So, a 15 minute video takes 40 minutes. Yeah, fun.
On top of that, I had a customer coming Thursday morning and it was our planned day to go see the play!
We got the stuff (4 hours to find!), 2 hours for hair because I seriously cannot hair - I can only do a ponytail, no time for lunch, she was late getting there because it is 1 hour away and we had to drive into town to get the things, then back home for her to get ready, then back to the theater.
The play was great though! Much Ado About Nothing set in the 1910's. The teens were cute. They did the full play, but are shorting it to 30 minutes for a Shakepeare festival this summer.
You can tell we are not really theater people. However, we are trying to suck it up for our daughter. This is her last play with them, since she is going to public school next year, she will do theater with them. MUCH closer, MUCH easier, MUCH more organized.
This current school is really a mess. It is hurting them. I was not the only upset parent - LOTS of talk going on about it last night.
Today, we are dropping her off and picking her up. I will do her hair, but now that I know how it is going, it will be easier.
We are having crushed concrete and dirt dropped off today to making a little parking area/turn around area off the driveway. A customer is coming and the gas company is coming to give us an estimate for a generator. We are also meeting friends for dinner. Poor DH has only been home to sleep this week.
Well, I am off to the races - I hear the load of dirt coming up the drive!
Wednesday, June 13, 2018
Always waiting for the shoe to drop
I watched a Ted Talk while eating lunch today. I try to watch or read something about 15 minutes long when I eat. This one was living with high functioning anxiety - which is where I feel I am right now. I am securely in peri-menopause and I have spared the hot flashes, but the anxiety and exhaustion is absolutely killing me!
I am almost frozen right now not able to get anything started because usually as soon as I get going, something comes up. For example, I set up the iron and start ironing interfacing, when my daughter runs in and says theater has called rehearsals early and we are an hour away. By the time I get back, dinner has to be made, then she has to be picked up, by the time I get back, the kitchen has to be cleaned and I am exhausted.
Things like this happen almost every single day.
It is life, I know. I think it is so bad now because of how far out we live from everything. The closest grocery store is 20 minutes, but it is a small town store and expensive. The closest Kroger is 45 minutes. So, just to grocery shop, you are looking at 1.5 hours just on the drive to and from.
If I have to go to Joann for sewing supplies - it is longer! 2 hours drive time. That takes up 1/2 a day almost. Then add food prep and time talking to the kids, basic chores that leaves zero time for working.
Sigh.
This house is also high maintenance. As much as we love it, we are already talking about it not being our forever home. We got a notice from the HOA today that our yard needs to be maintained. 2.5 acres worth. Good Lord.
We are working on a dry creek bed, but there is so much brush and so much outside work to be done. Our son is working on it on his days off, but the heat is just getting too much - 98F by 2 p.m.
I am sort of wanting to hire someone to come in and cut back the brush, prep the land and lay the sod, so it can get done and we are more on maintenance, than creating.
I think all the quilts I have to do SHOULD cover the small area we actually need to work on. Since I told everyone I would only take quilts until August, they are pouring in - I am up to 10. They are easy really, but time consuming. We will see how it goes.
Give me about 4 days and I will be back to normal. This cycle has been a bad one - I am 10 days late (but started FINALLY) - so the hormones are raging. My progesterone is dropping, so the estrogen will start dropping soon. I figure I am 4-5 years from menopause. It cannot come soon enough for me!
I am almost frozen right now not able to get anything started because usually as soon as I get going, something comes up. For example, I set up the iron and start ironing interfacing, when my daughter runs in and says theater has called rehearsals early and we are an hour away. By the time I get back, dinner has to be made, then she has to be picked up, by the time I get back, the kitchen has to be cleaned and I am exhausted.
Things like this happen almost every single day.
It is life, I know. I think it is so bad now because of how far out we live from everything. The closest grocery store is 20 minutes, but it is a small town store and expensive. The closest Kroger is 45 minutes. So, just to grocery shop, you are looking at 1.5 hours just on the drive to and from.
If I have to go to Joann for sewing supplies - it is longer! 2 hours drive time. That takes up 1/2 a day almost. Then add food prep and time talking to the kids, basic chores that leaves zero time for working.
Sigh.
This house is also high maintenance. As much as we love it, we are already talking about it not being our forever home. We got a notice from the HOA today that our yard needs to be maintained. 2.5 acres worth. Good Lord.
We are working on a dry creek bed, but there is so much brush and so much outside work to be done. Our son is working on it on his days off, but the heat is just getting too much - 98F by 2 p.m.
I am sort of wanting to hire someone to come in and cut back the brush, prep the land and lay the sod, so it can get done and we are more on maintenance, than creating.
I think all the quilts I have to do SHOULD cover the small area we actually need to work on. Since I told everyone I would only take quilts until August, they are pouring in - I am up to 10. They are easy really, but time consuming. We will see how it goes.
Give me about 4 days and I will be back to normal. This cycle has been a bad one - I am 10 days late (but started FINALLY) - so the hormones are raging. My progesterone is dropping, so the estrogen will start dropping soon. I figure I am 4-5 years from menopause. It cannot come soon enough for me!
Tuesday, June 12, 2018
180 degree turn - long post
I have time today.
I will have time most days from now on, if I can help it.
This past weekend was a whirlwind. I was still a little sick and found out on Friday that I had a date wrong with one of my customers. I was thinking her 2 quilts and 4 pillows were due on June 14th, but it was actually July 14th. Whew! I took the weekend off and just rested.
Sort of.
Since deciding to take the business to a different level, we met with 2 website designers. We discussed how it would look, where the ecommerce tools would come from, MailChimp for abandoned carts and some marketing, themes, blogs, etc, etc. All this fun stuff costs money, but you have to spend some when you start a legitimate business right?
After the meetings, I rested a bit, DH picked up around the house, we actually got in the hot tub because I thought I needed a soak - I was freezing to death. We talked about where the business was going, how we could use it to work together, what roles DH would play, what I could do. Really future forward things like we used to do when we were younger with young children and got away for the weekend.
Yes, when the kids were young, my sister would keep them, and we would rent a cabin with a hot tub in the foothills of Texas and dream about our home we would build, how our lives would look in 10 years, 20 years, etc. We were very young (still are 20 years later) and deeply in love (still are 20 years later) and our whole lives were ahead of us.
We had not talked like that in a very long time. The kids' schedules prevent us from getting away and the occasional dinner every now does not give us the chance to get into those really deep conversations.
Usually, we have to get away to reach that point, but for some reason, my meds, the hot tub, the slow weekend, it all added up and we talked.
We were positive and excited about this new adventure - DH was calculating the amount of time it would take to pay off the house so he could quit, it was fabulous!
Do any of you have nightime epiphanies?
The kind that keep you up and change your whole outlook? The ones where see the future so clearly and so wholly, that it somewhat frightens you and causes this type of anxiety that is all encompassing and confusing and affects the whole next day?
I saw the stress. I saw me having major health problems. I saw a distant husband. I saw the tiredness and the overbearing feeling of being tied down. I saw being alone while my husband traveled since my work kept me in one place. I saw a constant feeling of having to perform and not getting time off.
None of these are great for this mostly introverted 40 something who internalizes and doesn't allow anyone to take her picture.
So Sunday morning came slowly. The night was long. I spent most of it in front of the computer, then the other part listening to DH breath and rest so comfortably which in itself caused more anxiety that I could not sleep and the confusion of what to do settled directly in my chest.
I could not verbalize my feelings on Sunday which made a difficult and uncomfortable day with us walking on egg shells and avoiding eye contact. It is not a fun dance we play from time to time, but it is almost needed by me to make clear my thoughts and him to prepare for the blow. I mean after all, we have been talking about this for a year or more, recently putting money and time into it - his eyes sparkled at the thought of it. ( I will add here, there was also a very personal issue at play here - one I cannot talk about as it is just between my husband and me, but also caused great distressed on top of this issue.)
I worked a bit to avoid talking, but the cutting and ironing only left more time for thinking and that is not the best thing when emotions are are running wild and tears keep falling, causing more nasal discharge on top of the sickness. It was ugly, not pretty or elegant in any way. DH left me alone for which I will be eternally grateful.
Sunday night was no better - more futuristic visions of complications and another sleepless night - staring at the smoke detector light wishing it would go out and leave darkness so sleep could overcome my tired self. It didn't and I didn't.
Monday came. Cleaners were coming and a house had to get ready. Kids needed to get up and life needed to happen. Funny thing that life - it keeps moving even when you want it stop and wait - wait for your mind to catch up and get settled. It doesn't though - you have to force your mind to move forward. Mine went to closing the business.
So, I did.
DH freaked out! I had no idea he was THAT much into it. He took it as I was taking away our future and that meant I wanted out. WHAT?!?!?!?! I was tired, I feel the most immense amount of pressure to perform, to succeed, to "Make it Happen"...
I cried, he cried.
We drove around because I did not want the cleaners OR the kids to see us quite like this - this was a very private moment for us and the outside world was not invited. In a way, I think this was a long time coming. A culmination of the last couple of years and so much change, and a lack of intimacy and time for ourselves to rest and get deep. I hate when we go through these times, but in general, we don't fight, we don't bicker, we rarely disagree. There is understanding, support and acceptance in a very quiet and loving manner. However, we are 2 very distinct and different people and I think these inklings build up and explode sometimes in these emotional and very dramatic moments.
He raises his voice - not a yell, but one of frustration and I get so quiet - so quiet he cannot hear me and has to ask me to repeat it which is hard because it took all I had to say it to begin with. Funny, because when the kids were young and I told them to sit down, even adults that were around us sat down - I have a very loud and authoritative voice, but I was so soft then. So soft.
This broke me guys - this decision, the hurt. He thought I wanted to leave him, which was ludicrous in my mind, but this is what happens when so much death and change washes over you and the intimacy is lost. This is how you find it.
I needed to be with them - my family. There was so much separation with the business, the build, we got away from who we are as a family, a couple with dreams, and individuals who are begrudgingly aging.
I need to look after myself. Something I have never done and was never allowed to do (in my mind?), and something that I need to do. I need to rest - they kind of rest that is deep and healing, the kind that I don't wake up with a start every day thinking I am late or have forgotten something. Yes, I have done that for at least 2 years. I am living in an adrenaline vacuum. Fight or Flight. There is no reason for it!
My wanting to close the business - which, by the way - is a very slow process - like almost a year slow. I have to fulfill current orders and give people a little time to order for the quilts. I decided August is the time I will stop accepting any orders - seems appropriate - it is when the kids go back to school and basically it is a change of seasons. In more than one way.
Then starts the selling of inventory, then business supplies - vinyl, fabrics, snaps, cork, patterns, etc. Then, equipment and furniture.
Did DH accept this? He did. Not at first, it took convincing that this was not an attack on our relationship or our family, but a focus on our relationship and our family and on myself. I want to travel with him. I want to be healthier because I want to hike the Grand Canyon and Zion. I want to be able to walk and walk and walk and walk and walk.
We are still soft with each other - I still get teary - there were some strong hurts, but we are actually better now. There were some things said that had been held for a long time - like he is scared about my heart. I have a hole in my aortic valve. About how I could stroke out. These things are real and difficult and we have growing pains like most couples who stay together.
Now, I want you all to know - I do not feel that we were in any way, shape or form close to a break up. I think his mind was full of emotions and doubts and in the heat of the moment went there. It is not a normal thing for us, which is why this was so difficult and uncomfortable and painful and weird.
I think a lot of people give up during these times. It is hard to face some things - death, sickness, the ending of things, an uncertain future, aging. I truly believe this was a defining moment of acceptance of these things on our parts. We may not be so graceful in their coming, but when get through it, we are always graceful because we still can gaze into each other eyes and know that "I love you" means just that. Just beautiful.
So, that is how, in 48 hours - we decided to close the business and discovered a little something else along the way - that we chose our family, always our family that we made and forge. Us. Together.
I will have time most days from now on, if I can help it.
This past weekend was a whirlwind. I was still a little sick and found out on Friday that I had a date wrong with one of my customers. I was thinking her 2 quilts and 4 pillows were due on June 14th, but it was actually July 14th. Whew! I took the weekend off and just rested.
Sort of.
Since deciding to take the business to a different level, we met with 2 website designers. We discussed how it would look, where the ecommerce tools would come from, MailChimp for abandoned carts and some marketing, themes, blogs, etc, etc. All this fun stuff costs money, but you have to spend some when you start a legitimate business right?
After the meetings, I rested a bit, DH picked up around the house, we actually got in the hot tub because I thought I needed a soak - I was freezing to death. We talked about where the business was going, how we could use it to work together, what roles DH would play, what I could do. Really future forward things like we used to do when we were younger with young children and got away for the weekend.
Yes, when the kids were young, my sister would keep them, and we would rent a cabin with a hot tub in the foothills of Texas and dream about our home we would build, how our lives would look in 10 years, 20 years, etc. We were very young (still are 20 years later) and deeply in love (still are 20 years later) and our whole lives were ahead of us.
We had not talked like that in a very long time. The kids' schedules prevent us from getting away and the occasional dinner every now does not give us the chance to get into those really deep conversations.
Usually, we have to get away to reach that point, but for some reason, my meds, the hot tub, the slow weekend, it all added up and we talked.
We were positive and excited about this new adventure - DH was calculating the amount of time it would take to pay off the house so he could quit, it was fabulous!
Do any of you have nightime epiphanies?
The kind that keep you up and change your whole outlook? The ones where see the future so clearly and so wholly, that it somewhat frightens you and causes this type of anxiety that is all encompassing and confusing and affects the whole next day?
I saw the stress. I saw me having major health problems. I saw a distant husband. I saw the tiredness and the overbearing feeling of being tied down. I saw being alone while my husband traveled since my work kept me in one place. I saw a constant feeling of having to perform and not getting time off.
None of these are great for this mostly introverted 40 something who internalizes and doesn't allow anyone to take her picture.
So Sunday morning came slowly. The night was long. I spent most of it in front of the computer, then the other part listening to DH breath and rest so comfortably which in itself caused more anxiety that I could not sleep and the confusion of what to do settled directly in my chest.
I could not verbalize my feelings on Sunday which made a difficult and uncomfortable day with us walking on egg shells and avoiding eye contact. It is not a fun dance we play from time to time, but it is almost needed by me to make clear my thoughts and him to prepare for the blow. I mean after all, we have been talking about this for a year or more, recently putting money and time into it - his eyes sparkled at the thought of it. ( I will add here, there was also a very personal issue at play here - one I cannot talk about as it is just between my husband and me, but also caused great distressed on top of this issue.)
I worked a bit to avoid talking, but the cutting and ironing only left more time for thinking and that is not the best thing when emotions are are running wild and tears keep falling, causing more nasal discharge on top of the sickness. It was ugly, not pretty or elegant in any way. DH left me alone for which I will be eternally grateful.
Sunday night was no better - more futuristic visions of complications and another sleepless night - staring at the smoke detector light wishing it would go out and leave darkness so sleep could overcome my tired self. It didn't and I didn't.
Monday came. Cleaners were coming and a house had to get ready. Kids needed to get up and life needed to happen. Funny thing that life - it keeps moving even when you want it stop and wait - wait for your mind to catch up and get settled. It doesn't though - you have to force your mind to move forward. Mine went to closing the business.
So, I did.
DH freaked out! I had no idea he was THAT much into it. He took it as I was taking away our future and that meant I wanted out. WHAT?!?!?!?! I was tired, I feel the most immense amount of pressure to perform, to succeed, to "Make it Happen"...
I cried, he cried.
We drove around because I did not want the cleaners OR the kids to see us quite like this - this was a very private moment for us and the outside world was not invited. In a way, I think this was a long time coming. A culmination of the last couple of years and so much change, and a lack of intimacy and time for ourselves to rest and get deep. I hate when we go through these times, but in general, we don't fight, we don't bicker, we rarely disagree. There is understanding, support and acceptance in a very quiet and loving manner. However, we are 2 very distinct and different people and I think these inklings build up and explode sometimes in these emotional and very dramatic moments.
He raises his voice - not a yell, but one of frustration and I get so quiet - so quiet he cannot hear me and has to ask me to repeat it which is hard because it took all I had to say it to begin with. Funny, because when the kids were young and I told them to sit down, even adults that were around us sat down - I have a very loud and authoritative voice, but I was so soft then. So soft.
This broke me guys - this decision, the hurt. He thought I wanted to leave him, which was ludicrous in my mind, but this is what happens when so much death and change washes over you and the intimacy is lost. This is how you find it.
I needed to be with them - my family. There was so much separation with the business, the build, we got away from who we are as a family, a couple with dreams, and individuals who are begrudgingly aging.
I need to look after myself. Something I have never done and was never allowed to do (in my mind?), and something that I need to do. I need to rest - they kind of rest that is deep and healing, the kind that I don't wake up with a start every day thinking I am late or have forgotten something. Yes, I have done that for at least 2 years. I am living in an adrenaline vacuum. Fight or Flight. There is no reason for it!
My wanting to close the business - which, by the way - is a very slow process - like almost a year slow. I have to fulfill current orders and give people a little time to order for the quilts. I decided August is the time I will stop accepting any orders - seems appropriate - it is when the kids go back to school and basically it is a change of seasons. In more than one way.
Then starts the selling of inventory, then business supplies - vinyl, fabrics, snaps, cork, patterns, etc. Then, equipment and furniture.
Did DH accept this? He did. Not at first, it took convincing that this was not an attack on our relationship or our family, but a focus on our relationship and our family and on myself. I want to travel with him. I want to be healthier because I want to hike the Grand Canyon and Zion. I want to be able to walk and walk and walk and walk and walk.
We are still soft with each other - I still get teary - there were some strong hurts, but we are actually better now. There were some things said that had been held for a long time - like he is scared about my heart. I have a hole in my aortic valve. About how I could stroke out. These things are real and difficult and we have growing pains like most couples who stay together.
Now, I want you all to know - I do not feel that we were in any way, shape or form close to a break up. I think his mind was full of emotions and doubts and in the heat of the moment went there. It is not a normal thing for us, which is why this was so difficult and uncomfortable and painful and weird.
I think a lot of people give up during these times. It is hard to face some things - death, sickness, the ending of things, an uncertain future, aging. I truly believe this was a defining moment of acceptance of these things on our parts. We may not be so graceful in their coming, but when get through it, we are always graceful because we still can gaze into each other eyes and know that "I love you" means just that. Just beautiful.
So, that is how, in 48 hours - we decided to close the business and discovered a little something else along the way - that we chose our family, always our family that we made and forge. Us. Together.
Wednesday, June 6, 2018
What do you do when you are sick?
Yes, I am freaking sick again. It might be because of my allergies - so much pollen in the air!
No voice is pretty much a given anytime I get sick, so this will make one full month so far this year with no voice. I am so thankful for texting, emailing and just the computer in general as a way of communication. I do write things down, but I can type so much more quickly!
Anyway, what did I do? Yesterday, nothing - I really felt like crap - I did not even get myself anything to eat yesterday.
Today, I feel a little better, I still get tired and cannot breath through my nose too much, but I was ok to get some computer work done.
Oh, I guess I have not told you all the big news!
I AM OPENING AN ON-LINE FABRIC STORE!!
It will be very limited quantities and varieties at first, we are cash flowing and slowly, slowly building up inventory. I currently am a distributor for Free Spirit Fabrics, Robert Kaufman Fabrics, Henry Glass, A.E. Nathan, Blank Fabrics, Art Gallery Fabrics and a couple of other small ones.
Since this is pretty much a division of my business - one side custom-made items and now this side fabric yardage - I split up where I will be selling both sides of the business. The custom and pre-made items will be available via the Facebook Page and by contacting me personally, whereas the fabric yardages and pre-cuts will only be available on my website. I will probably start another page and group on Facebook that deals with the fabric side, but I am not sure how I will handle Instagram.
So, I revamped the website - taking all the products off and getting it ready for the fabric. On Facebook, I opened up a Shop and added the tote bags.
I have a few more things to add, but I am also trying to build up inventory for fall.
Ok, to explain why we are going in the fabric direction. Well, my husband wants to retire - his job is going to start requiring extensive travel and he does not want to do that. He has no choice though - it is either take the job or quit.
So, we are trying to build up my business, so he can quit. The goal is have the business going enough that he can quit when the house is paid off - so 5-10 years. It may not work, but this is a goal of ours.
Eventually, I will slow down on the making of items. I will do more designing, making a pattern, video a how-to, and thus, have the items for sale that make up the pattern. Something like that.
I may do a show every fall to sell the samples or something.
Hopefully this will do what we want it to do - We work really well together and it has always been a dream of ours to work together.
Anyway, DH just got home, so I need to give him some attention! Hope you all had a great day.
No voice is pretty much a given anytime I get sick, so this will make one full month so far this year with no voice. I am so thankful for texting, emailing and just the computer in general as a way of communication. I do write things down, but I can type so much more quickly!
Anyway, what did I do? Yesterday, nothing - I really felt like crap - I did not even get myself anything to eat yesterday.
Today, I feel a little better, I still get tired and cannot breath through my nose too much, but I was ok to get some computer work done.
Oh, I guess I have not told you all the big news!
I AM OPENING AN ON-LINE FABRIC STORE!!
It will be very limited quantities and varieties at first, we are cash flowing and slowly, slowly building up inventory. I currently am a distributor for Free Spirit Fabrics, Robert Kaufman Fabrics, Henry Glass, A.E. Nathan, Blank Fabrics, Art Gallery Fabrics and a couple of other small ones.
Since this is pretty much a division of my business - one side custom-made items and now this side fabric yardage - I split up where I will be selling both sides of the business. The custom and pre-made items will be available via the Facebook Page and by contacting me personally, whereas the fabric yardages and pre-cuts will only be available on my website. I will probably start another page and group on Facebook that deals with the fabric side, but I am not sure how I will handle Instagram.
So, I revamped the website - taking all the products off and getting it ready for the fabric. On Facebook, I opened up a Shop and added the tote bags.
I have a few more things to add, but I am also trying to build up inventory for fall.
Ok, to explain why we are going in the fabric direction. Well, my husband wants to retire - his job is going to start requiring extensive travel and he does not want to do that. He has no choice though - it is either take the job or quit.
So, we are trying to build up my business, so he can quit. The goal is have the business going enough that he can quit when the house is paid off - so 5-10 years. It may not work, but this is a goal of ours.
Eventually, I will slow down on the making of items. I will do more designing, making a pattern, video a how-to, and thus, have the items for sale that make up the pattern. Something like that.
I may do a show every fall to sell the samples or something.
Hopefully this will do what we want it to do - We work really well together and it has always been a dream of ours to work together.
Anyway, DH just got home, so I need to give him some attention! Hope you all had a great day.
Monday, June 4, 2018
End of May Numbers
We are still just ticking on and keeping on. Nothing major to talk about or disclose. The little bit of my inheritance came in and we got a bonus which allowed us to pay off a credit card and our college son's car. We paid it off for yard work this summer - which is extensive - digging a 150ft dry creek bed - laying rocks, cutting back brush, tilling an acre, laying sod, cutting down trees, etc.
Debts (starting October 2017)
401(k) loan for land
October 2017 Start - $42,627
Current - $0
CC#1
October 2017 Start - $30,400.81
Current - $0
CC#2
October 2017 Start - $13,943.95
Current - $0
CC#3
October 2017 Start - $17,279.17
Current -$0
CC#4
October 2017 Start - $32,855.22
Current - $0
CC#5
October 2017 Start - $0
Current - $25,676
Truck
October 2017 Start - $21,753.52
Current -$18,423.62
Car
October 2017 Start - $7,013.68
Current -$6,105.24
Mortgage
October 2017 Start - $332,480.00
Current - $327,123.29
Total Non-Mortgage
October 2017 Start - $165, 874.09
Current - $50,204.86
Total Debt
October 2017 Start - $498,354.09
Current - $377,328.15
So, another bill bites the dust! I am glad, but I know we still have a long way to go. Now that all the inheritance is in, there will not be any more influxes of cash other than my husband's paycheck and any bonuses. I really want to be out of credit card debt this year however. It would feel amazing!
Well, I am off for now. Take care!
Debts (starting October 2017)
October 2017 Start - $42,627
Current - $0
October 2017 Start - $30,400.81
Current - $0
October 2017 Start - $13,943.95
Current - $0
October 2017 Start - $17,279.17
Current -$0
October 2017 Start - $32,855.22
Current - $0
CC#5
October 2017 Start - $0
Current - $25,676
Truck
October 2017 Start - $21,753.52
Current -$18,423.62
Car
October 2017 Start - $7,013.68
Current -$6,105.24
Mortgage
October 2017 Start - $332,480.00
Current - $327,123.29
Total Non-Mortgage
October 2017 Start - $165, 874.09
Current - $50,204.86
Total Debt
October 2017 Start - $498,354.09
Current - $377,328.15
So, another bill bites the dust! I am glad, but I know we still have a long way to go. Now that all the inheritance is in, there will not be any more influxes of cash other than my husband's paycheck and any bonuses. I really want to be out of credit card debt this year however. It would feel amazing!
Well, I am off for now. Take care!
Monday, May 21, 2018
Working weekend
I pretty much worked all weekend - getting that huge quilt done. Luckily, although it was heavy and hot, it came together very nicely and the actual sewing was smooth.
Although the picture make it look small - this is slightly larger than a Queen, not quite a King size though.
Then, a friend of mine had an old jacket from his L.A. days. It has moth holes and discoloration, but he loved it. So, I made it into a pillow for him. It is this really slick, fraying mess of a fabric, but I made it work. I took the bottom elastic and put it in as well, so it still looked like his jacket.
Now, I have to get ready for a show on the 2nd. It is a Church in a small town that asked me to be there for free! I cannot turn down free, but I also need to get ready.
It is a family focuses event so I need to make more stuffies and totes - they are my biggest "family" sellers. I am focusing on the Quick Kids stuffies - no limbs to attach - just a little applique and embroidery. They take about 45 minutes each to make. Then the totes - it is a simply gusseted tote with slip pocket, but they are selling like crazy! First show, I, 2 hours long and also free - I sold 5.
We have dental appointments and eye appointments this week, but even so I was thinking - WOW! I have a week to work with no major events for the first time a long time.
Not in the cards. My mother-in-law said she will be here on Wednesday. Sigh. Love her, her timing is impeccable for coming at the worst moment however. Well, not the worst, but I am just starting to get on top of things and she is coming which means I will not be able to work like I need to.
We will see how it goes. We don't know when she will leave. She is retired and her husband passed away last August, so she is going around staying with people for several weeks. I cannot entertain her and my work is at my home! Let's hope she heads back next Tuesday. It is a holiday weekend, so DH can keep her entertained.
OK, I am going to get to work now - I need to quickly grade math, then whip out 2 more pillows and get started on some wallets.
Although the picture make it look small - this is slightly larger than a Queen, not quite a King size though.
Then, a friend of mine had an old jacket from his L.A. days. It has moth holes and discoloration, but he loved it. So, I made it into a pillow for him. It is this really slick, fraying mess of a fabric, but I made it work. I took the bottom elastic and put it in as well, so it still looked like his jacket.
Now, I have to get ready for a show on the 2nd. It is a Church in a small town that asked me to be there for free! I cannot turn down free, but I also need to get ready.
It is a family focuses event so I need to make more stuffies and totes - they are my biggest "family" sellers. I am focusing on the Quick Kids stuffies - no limbs to attach - just a little applique and embroidery. They take about 45 minutes each to make. Then the totes - it is a simply gusseted tote with slip pocket, but they are selling like crazy! First show, I, 2 hours long and also free - I sold 5.
We have dental appointments and eye appointments this week, but even so I was thinking - WOW! I have a week to work with no major events for the first time a long time.
Not in the cards. My mother-in-law said she will be here on Wednesday. Sigh. Love her, her timing is impeccable for coming at the worst moment however. Well, not the worst, but I am just starting to get on top of things and she is coming which means I will not be able to work like I need to.
We will see how it goes. We don't know when she will leave. She is retired and her husband passed away last August, so she is going around staying with people for several weeks. I cannot entertain her and my work is at my home! Let's hope she heads back next Tuesday. It is a holiday weekend, so DH can keep her entertained.
OK, I am going to get to work now - I need to quickly grade math, then whip out 2 more pillows and get started on some wallets.
Saturday, May 19, 2018
Getting it Done Saturday
Well, I am trying to at least.
Since we are all amongst women here for the most part, I am going to talk women. This has been the period from HELL! It started almost 2 weeks ago with the worst breast and back pain and emotions that were awful! I knew it was hormones and could nothing about it - anxiety, sadness, fatigue like nobody else and crying. I am glad that is over. Then when it actually started, the cramps brought me to my knees, down my thighs and in my back still. I am on day 5 and it is still going strong. This peri-menopause is the worst! Oh, and on top of that, it was a 22 day cycle.
It is getting more and more erratic. I was always 24-25 days, then for a while, I was 32-34 days (which was heaven) AND they were much lighter! I even went 60 days once. I hope since this one was so bad, the next one is lighter and longer. I hear it gets worse before better.
Anyway, moving on...
Today, I am finishing up the top of that monster quilt, sandwiching it, then beginning to quilt it - I will not finish today, there is just too much.
DH takes our daughter to theater every Saturday, but since it is almost an hour away, he runs errands while waiting for her to get out.
Today, he our oldest shopping for his birthday. We had Kohl's cash, so he got 4 pairs of cargo shorts, a couple of shirts, 2 packages of socks and a nice pair of flip flops.
Then ran to the bank for business and personal deposits, washed the car inside and out, ran to Lowe's for some weed killer and a mirror for the 1/2 bath in the room above the garage - it is a swing arm kind since the angles of the walls are so steep - eventually I will get a picture of it. He also went to Sprouts and got us some fresh veggies. I think there is enough food around here to make it through the week without having to do other shopping. I am going to make some Healthy Gazpacho - I look forward to it every summer - lots of veggies. I warm it up slightly and put a dollop of sour cream in it! Fresh basil and it is delicious!
When he gets home, he promised to clean the fridge. The man is a saint! I hate that job with a passion - I would rather clean toilets than clean the fridge.
Last night, DH and our youngest went to the symphony and our 2nd and 3rd children went to see Hamilton. I managed to score 2 tickets - mainly for my daughter, but her and our 20 year old son get along really well, so they went together. I stayed home for a night to myself - it was fabulous! I watched BBC America all evening! LOL
I hope you all are having a great weekend!
Since we are all amongst women here for the most part, I am going to talk women. This has been the period from HELL! It started almost 2 weeks ago with the worst breast and back pain and emotions that were awful! I knew it was hormones and could nothing about it - anxiety, sadness, fatigue like nobody else and crying. I am glad that is over. Then when it actually started, the cramps brought me to my knees, down my thighs and in my back still. I am on day 5 and it is still going strong. This peri-menopause is the worst! Oh, and on top of that, it was a 22 day cycle.
It is getting more and more erratic. I was always 24-25 days, then for a while, I was 32-34 days (which was heaven) AND they were much lighter! I even went 60 days once. I hope since this one was so bad, the next one is lighter and longer. I hear it gets worse before better.
Anyway, moving on...
Today, I am finishing up the top of that monster quilt, sandwiching it, then beginning to quilt it - I will not finish today, there is just too much.
DH takes our daughter to theater every Saturday, but since it is almost an hour away, he runs errands while waiting for her to get out.
Today, he our oldest shopping for his birthday. We had Kohl's cash, so he got 4 pairs of cargo shorts, a couple of shirts, 2 packages of socks and a nice pair of flip flops.
Then ran to the bank for business and personal deposits, washed the car inside and out, ran to Lowe's for some weed killer and a mirror for the 1/2 bath in the room above the garage - it is a swing arm kind since the angles of the walls are so steep - eventually I will get a picture of it. He also went to Sprouts and got us some fresh veggies. I think there is enough food around here to make it through the week without having to do other shopping. I am going to make some Healthy Gazpacho - I look forward to it every summer - lots of veggies. I warm it up slightly and put a dollop of sour cream in it! Fresh basil and it is delicious!
When he gets home, he promised to clean the fridge. The man is a saint! I hate that job with a passion - I would rather clean toilets than clean the fridge.
Last night, DH and our youngest went to the symphony and our 2nd and 3rd children went to see Hamilton. I managed to score 2 tickets - mainly for my daughter, but her and our 20 year old son get along really well, so they went together. I stayed home for a night to myself - it was fabulous! I watched BBC America all evening! LOL
I hope you all are having a great weekend!
Friday, May 18, 2018
Fabrics and Business
Well, LOTS going on for the business. I know I have been lack on the finance front - there will be an update at the end of the month.
I buy a ton of fabric - I mean a whole lot. I use fabrics in my quilts, fabrics in my bags, fabrics in pretty much everything I do.
Well, up to now, I have been paying retail for all my purchases. Yesterday, I got to thinking as I was about to make another purchase for fabric, that I should get a wholesale account for my favorite fabrics.
As I got more into it, for the ones I really like, there are beginning purchase amounts - $250 to $1,000, then no minimums after that. So, I would have a TON of fabric up front, but then could just buy what I needed after that.
Then, I figure I have to buy the bolts - there are 8 to 15 yards on a bolt. That is a lot of one kind of fabric. People are always asking me where I get my fabric though. What if I buy what I want for my customers, then sell what I don't use?
Hmmm, interesting.
So, I talk to a friend that is a quilter - like competition winner quilter. She thinks this is a great idea, but that I need a large on-line presence and to make sure I have different things than one local quilt store. They are more traditional, but do have some modern fabrics.
I am not at the level of going to a full on fabric store. This would be selling what I have left over from my work - at least at first.
This friend suggested I do Etsy, but I dislike Etsy A LOT. I have a website with a store and could easily put these fabrics on there, but how do I get people to go to the website?
Interesting things to think about - the other thing is if these companies sell less than a bolt, I may be able to use all the fabric without getting into the selling of fabric thing. It could just be there just in case.
Business is such an amazing, organic thing - constantly changing and growing and shrinking. I have heard that if you have a nervous feeling in your stomach, then you are doing the right thing. Well, I am having a controlled nervous pit in my stomach - not too much, but lots of excitement!
I have been in pain for the past couple of days, so I have mainly done research and plan out the fall. I need to get to work tomorrow and finish a quilt, then make 3 pillows and start building up inventory for the next show. Busy, busy!
I buy a ton of fabric - I mean a whole lot. I use fabrics in my quilts, fabrics in my bags, fabrics in pretty much everything I do.
Well, up to now, I have been paying retail for all my purchases. Yesterday, I got to thinking as I was about to make another purchase for fabric, that I should get a wholesale account for my favorite fabrics.
As I got more into it, for the ones I really like, there are beginning purchase amounts - $250 to $1,000, then no minimums after that. So, I would have a TON of fabric up front, but then could just buy what I needed after that.
Then, I figure I have to buy the bolts - there are 8 to 15 yards on a bolt. That is a lot of one kind of fabric. People are always asking me where I get my fabric though. What if I buy what I want for my customers, then sell what I don't use?
Hmmm, interesting.
So, I talk to a friend that is a quilter - like competition winner quilter. She thinks this is a great idea, but that I need a large on-line presence and to make sure I have different things than one local quilt store. They are more traditional, but do have some modern fabrics.
I am not at the level of going to a full on fabric store. This would be selling what I have left over from my work - at least at first.
This friend suggested I do Etsy, but I dislike Etsy A LOT. I have a website with a store and could easily put these fabrics on there, but how do I get people to go to the website?
Interesting things to think about - the other thing is if these companies sell less than a bolt, I may be able to use all the fabric without getting into the selling of fabric thing. It could just be there just in case.
Business is such an amazing, organic thing - constantly changing and growing and shrinking. I have heard that if you have a nervous feeling in your stomach, then you are doing the right thing. Well, I am having a controlled nervous pit in my stomach - not too much, but lots of excitement!
I have been in pain for the past couple of days, so I have mainly done research and plan out the fall. I need to get to work tomorrow and finish a quilt, then make 3 pillows and start building up inventory for the next show. Busy, busy!
Monday, May 14, 2018
Weekend fun
Spur of the moment camping trip!
It was our first time out in the RV since we lived in it last year. I wasn't sure how the kids were going to take it, but DH and I needed a break. We did not cook at all - just ate easy food - sandwiches and I picked up some sushi and potstickers. Veggies and dip and we were good to go.
I don't really do Mother's Day. Holidays in general are not great for me - VERY, VERY bad childhood with lots of abuse, so I tend to be low key and just get through them. Crazy because I no longer speak with my mother, but for 38 years every holiday was a nightmare, so we just lay low and keep all pressure off of the day.
Even Christmas (which I LOVE the season), on the day, we make sausage balls, open presents and I have chili in the crock pot cooking from the night before. No cooking, no other family, no stress.
Anyway, we walked a bit, played Big Boggle, watched a couple of movies, talked, made smores, and just enjoyed each other. We did not have cell service so the kids were forced to find other means of entertainment. They wrote and drew pictures - it was lovely.
I slept a ton, but still feel pretty tired. This exhaustion is pretty deep. Last year really did me in. We are working on it though - getting some things off my plate. Nothing I can talk about yet, but I can say we are working on it.
As for taking the RV out. The kids enjoyed it - they don't want to live on it, but for a quick trip, they said they did not mind. Whereas, it put the wanderlust back in DH and I. Not to travel to other countries (though that is always there), but slowly tour the US and Canada. When the kids are gone of course - they have no interest in traveling like that with us anymore.
Anyway, I have to get going. I have a quilt to make, house to clean and laundry to do!
It was our first time out in the RV since we lived in it last year. I wasn't sure how the kids were going to take it, but DH and I needed a break. We did not cook at all - just ate easy food - sandwiches and I picked up some sushi and potstickers. Veggies and dip and we were good to go.
I don't really do Mother's Day. Holidays in general are not great for me - VERY, VERY bad childhood with lots of abuse, so I tend to be low key and just get through them. Crazy because I no longer speak with my mother, but for 38 years every holiday was a nightmare, so we just lay low and keep all pressure off of the day.
Even Christmas (which I LOVE the season), on the day, we make sausage balls, open presents and I have chili in the crock pot cooking from the night before. No cooking, no other family, no stress.
Anyway, we walked a bit, played Big Boggle, watched a couple of movies, talked, made smores, and just enjoyed each other. We did not have cell service so the kids were forced to find other means of entertainment. They wrote and drew pictures - it was lovely.
I slept a ton, but still feel pretty tired. This exhaustion is pretty deep. Last year really did me in. We are working on it though - getting some things off my plate. Nothing I can talk about yet, but I can say we are working on it.
As for taking the RV out. The kids enjoyed it - they don't want to live on it, but for a quick trip, they said they did not mind. Whereas, it put the wanderlust back in DH and I. Not to travel to other countries (though that is always there), but slowly tour the US and Canada. When the kids are gone of course - they have no interest in traveling like that with us anymore.
Anyway, I have to get going. I have a quilt to make, house to clean and laundry to do!
Wednesday, May 9, 2018
Slowly down a bit
There is truly not a lot going on.
Business mostly. Some kids' stuff - just normal life.
On Monday, I had a booth at a local private school - they have a Farmer's Market. I don't usually do farmer's markets, it is not really my customer base, but I did as good in the 2 hours there as I did for a whole weekend at the last show. Not killing it, but still. The stuffed animals were a BIG hit - I almost sold out.
However, I did this show by myself. We planned our set up for inside shows, so the outside gigs are a little rough, but it worked. BUT, since I was by myself, I had to set up and break down alone - that tent is HEAVY!!! It is not an EZ Up Tent. Looks nice and shady there, but at the end, I was in full sun on concrete. I almost passed out. It was ugly. I did not drink enough the day before, the morning of or during. I had not eaten much either. Bad combination. I learned my lesson. The temps were at 95 on that concrete reflecting the sun back up on me. It was awful. A guy came and helped me, but it took a while for me to feel ok to drive.
Then yesterday, I felt like I had a hangover - it was from the heat I know. So, I did not get too much done. Today, I need to rock it out!
1.Finish making the backing for a quilt. I cut it wrong, so there is some work involved.
2. Sandwich said quilt and pin baste, ready for quilting
3. Make a Robot Peek-a-boo stuffie. It is for a photo shoot, so the deadline is today!
4. Send jpg of a monogram for approval.
5. Cut tote bag fabrics and interface them - ready to sew together tomorrow.
If I can get that done - I will be golden! It is very doable, if I get myself in gear. Slow going this morning - enjoying the coffee.
Business mostly. Some kids' stuff - just normal life.
On Monday, I had a booth at a local private school - they have a Farmer's Market. I don't usually do farmer's markets, it is not really my customer base, but I did as good in the 2 hours there as I did for a whole weekend at the last show. Not killing it, but still. The stuffed animals were a BIG hit - I almost sold out.
 |
| This was my booth. |
 |
| The new tote bags I am offering. |
 |
| I often do very bright and then more conservative. |
However, I did this show by myself. We planned our set up for inside shows, so the outside gigs are a little rough, but it worked. BUT, since I was by myself, I had to set up and break down alone - that tent is HEAVY!!! It is not an EZ Up Tent. Looks nice and shady there, but at the end, I was in full sun on concrete. I almost passed out. It was ugly. I did not drink enough the day before, the morning of or during. I had not eaten much either. Bad combination. I learned my lesson. The temps were at 95 on that concrete reflecting the sun back up on me. It was awful. A guy came and helped me, but it took a while for me to feel ok to drive.
Then yesterday, I felt like I had a hangover - it was from the heat I know. So, I did not get too much done. Today, I need to rock it out!
1.Finish making the backing for a quilt. I cut it wrong, so there is some work involved.
2. Sandwich said quilt and pin baste, ready for quilting
3. Make a Robot Peek-a-boo stuffie. It is for a photo shoot, so the deadline is today!
4. Send jpg of a monogram for approval.
5. Cut tote bag fabrics and interface them - ready to sew together tomorrow.
If I can get that done - I will be golden! It is very doable, if I get myself in gear. Slow going this morning - enjoying the coffee.
Friday, May 4, 2018
Stepping Back and Reevaluating
Things came to a head yesterday.
Homeschool - With everything, DH and I decided to stop, guilt free, and evaluate exactly where we are going with it. A break for us since we have been homeschooling for almost 3 years straight with funky breaks and stressful times. We all need a stress free break. In looking at what we have accomplished, we are not behind at all. So, I ordered some summer fun things - like math games, nature journals, drawing pencils, Boogle, etc. Dad set out a plan for them and HE will follow through with them, not me. I get a time to enjoy them as my children, not my pupils for a while.
Home - I went to wash clothes and the tub was full of water. Sigh. Hopefully DH got it fixed last night - I have not been in there to check this morning.
Son#2 - Is moving in with his girlfriend - Double Sigh. AND I just found out that they lost their apartment for next year due to a clerical error (apartment person told me that), so at this point, they do not have a place to live. They may be dorming it. Which would be great for them NOT living together. As much as I want to stress about this, I just don't have it in me.
Business: I am gearing up for fall. At this point, I will be 3 large shows - possibly 4, so business may be booming by this time next year - or not. We are giving it 3 full years. We will see.
I am still a little frozen - meaning, I am having a difficult time getting much done. Yeah, I know I need to pull up my boot straps and I will. I need to give myself a little time to decompress from the past 2 years.
Plus, it is cloudy and dark and perfect for curling up with a book on the easy chair and be drowsy. I will get my energy back - I just a few nights of really good sleep...
So, the next 3 months are for deciding
1. Will I homeschool? If not, where will they go?
2. Business - what direction to take it? How will it look with homeschool?
3. If I decide to continue to homeschool - what curriculum, what extra curriculars? balance with business?
These are difficult questions as the 2 don't mix really, but need to. I am as curious as you are about what will happen, but I am going to let it go for this next month. No more talk about homeschool for at least 30 days! Focus is home and business. Period!
Homeschool - With everything, DH and I decided to stop, guilt free, and evaluate exactly where we are going with it. A break for us since we have been homeschooling for almost 3 years straight with funky breaks and stressful times. We all need a stress free break. In looking at what we have accomplished, we are not behind at all. So, I ordered some summer fun things - like math games, nature journals, drawing pencils, Boogle, etc. Dad set out a plan for them and HE will follow through with them, not me. I get a time to enjoy them as my children, not my pupils for a while.
Home - I went to wash clothes and the tub was full of water. Sigh. Hopefully DH got it fixed last night - I have not been in there to check this morning.
Son#2 - Is moving in with his girlfriend - Double Sigh. AND I just found out that they lost their apartment for next year due to a clerical error (apartment person told me that), so at this point, they do not have a place to live. They may be dorming it. Which would be great for them NOT living together. As much as I want to stress about this, I just don't have it in me.
Business: I am gearing up for fall. At this point, I will be 3 large shows - possibly 4, so business may be booming by this time next year - or not. We are giving it 3 full years. We will see.
I am still a little frozen - meaning, I am having a difficult time getting much done. Yeah, I know I need to pull up my boot straps and I will. I need to give myself a little time to decompress from the past 2 years.
Plus, it is cloudy and dark and perfect for curling up with a book on the easy chair and be drowsy. I will get my energy back - I just a few nights of really good sleep...
So, the next 3 months are for deciding
1. Will I homeschool? If not, where will they go?
2. Business - what direction to take it? How will it look with homeschool?
3. If I decide to continue to homeschool - what curriculum, what extra curriculars? balance with business?
These are difficult questions as the 2 don't mix really, but need to. I am as curious as you are about what will happen, but I am going to let it go for this next month. No more talk about homeschool for at least 30 days! Focus is home and business. Period!
Wednesday, May 2, 2018
Clothes Shopping
We still have growing kids! My youngest did another overnight 3" growth. He is 13 years old and 6 ft tall and skinny - OMG - so skinny. He eats more than the rest of us and eats constantly - right now, he is putting away an entire bag of popcorn - after 3 corndogs, some pasta salad and an apple.
Needless to say, when he put on his jeans to go out last week, they looked like Capri pants, but in a bad way. Even his shirts were hitting him right at the jean top seam. They looked like they wanted to be half shirts.
Before now, we would just raid older brother's closet for things he did not wear anymore because he grew out of or just didn't wear, but DS#2 is no longer growing and doesn't live with us anymore.
Off to the store we go! Let's hope Kohl's has some deals - this kid needs a new wardrobe! We will more than likely do it in sets since they give you Kohls cash. He needs shorts for summer and shirts. We will get one pair of jeans for nicer occasions, but are holding off til fall to get more - he might grow again!
DD also needs a dress or nice slacks because she is going to see the musical Hamilton in a couple of weeks on a Friday night, so she needs to dress up just a bit. She has grown as well - though not as much as her brother - and her dresses are hitting her a little high in the waist. She has a straight waist, so it does not look good.
While we are out, since we have to combine trips into the city, I am hitting Joanns for some interfacing and batting as well as matching thread for my 2 quilts. While there, a customer is meeting me for a pick up. Then, we are off to Kohl's where we will meet up with Dad, then go for the Sushi Birthday Dinner we have been promising our daughter.
I don't love Sushi, but this child does - she could live on it.
Well, I am off to grab a quick bite to eat to tide me over, then answering emails and getting ready! Hope you are having a great day!
Needless to say, when he put on his jeans to go out last week, they looked like Capri pants, but in a bad way. Even his shirts were hitting him right at the jean top seam. They looked like they wanted to be half shirts.
Before now, we would just raid older brother's closet for things he did not wear anymore because he grew out of or just didn't wear, but DS#2 is no longer growing and doesn't live with us anymore.
Off to the store we go! Let's hope Kohl's has some deals - this kid needs a new wardrobe! We will more than likely do it in sets since they give you Kohls cash. He needs shorts for summer and shirts. We will get one pair of jeans for nicer occasions, but are holding off til fall to get more - he might grow again!
DD also needs a dress or nice slacks because she is going to see the musical Hamilton in a couple of weeks on a Friday night, so she needs to dress up just a bit. She has grown as well - though not as much as her brother - and her dresses are hitting her a little high in the waist. She has a straight waist, so it does not look good.
While we are out, since we have to combine trips into the city, I am hitting Joanns for some interfacing and batting as well as matching thread for my 2 quilts. While there, a customer is meeting me for a pick up. Then, we are off to Kohl's where we will meet up with Dad, then go for the Sushi Birthday Dinner we have been promising our daughter.
I don't love Sushi, but this child does - she could live on it.
Well, I am off to grab a quick bite to eat to tide me over, then answering emails and getting ready! Hope you are having a great day!
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Disclaimer
Hey everyone! I am trying to be more positive about things lately, so I have decided to embark on something new in hopes that we can build a business. I talked about it a little yesterday. This is one aspect of the plan.
I have become an affiliate with Craftsy.
How this came about...
I am very active on Facebook group of machine embroiderers. Some of the designers have asked me to be testers for their designs and I don't mind at all - I get free designs and many times gift certificate codes for MORE of their items. They like my pictures and my work, so it is a win-win for now.
On top of this, I get so many messages from people who want to know how to make the designs. The machine embroidery world is getting more complicated - you don't just hoop and let it go anymore, nor it is just about applique. I can make stuffed animals, purses, wallets, multi-layered with zippers and everything.
So, I started making tutorials for some of these. They received a tremendous response.
Well, this all got me thinking. I don't really want to charge for the tutorials - they are not my designs, so I feel uncomfortable charging what is not mine.
In steps Craftsy. I got an email from them about becoming an affiliate. There is not a lot of money involved, but it is a start.
What ALL this leads me to is...I will be starting a blog about embroidery/sewing/quilting tutorials for the beginner ONLY as well as Class Reviews from Craftsy and product reviews. (I don't have it just yet, but I will let you know).
This is going to be slow at first until I get a feel for how it will develop.
My disclaimer to you all is I put a small Craftsy link on here - it is my affiliate link and if you purchase anything after clicking there, I will receive a very small commission from it and it will not cost you anything. I am not expecting much at all here, just why not put a small one here?
Being an affiliate though, I will have special promotions that you can only get from someone who is an affiliate - and I am not the only one. I will probably mention it once a week in a post, but I will NOT hound you all!
Off to do more work now - I have 2 quilts going, plus 2 pouches and getting ready for a very mini-show next Monday.
I have become an affiliate with Craftsy.
How this came about...
I am very active on Facebook group of machine embroiderers. Some of the designers have asked me to be testers for their designs and I don't mind at all - I get free designs and many times gift certificate codes for MORE of their items. They like my pictures and my work, so it is a win-win for now.
 |
| This is done on the embroidery machine. It was one I tested for a designer. |
On top of this, I get so many messages from people who want to know how to make the designs. The machine embroidery world is getting more complicated - you don't just hoop and let it go anymore, nor it is just about applique. I can make stuffed animals, purses, wallets, multi-layered with zippers and everything.
 |
| I get asked mostly about layered key fobs |
So, I started making tutorials for some of these. They received a tremendous response.
Well, this all got me thinking. I don't really want to charge for the tutorials - they are not my designs, so I feel uncomfortable charging what is not mine.
In steps Craftsy. I got an email from them about becoming an affiliate. There is not a lot of money involved, but it is a start.
What ALL this leads me to is...I will be starting a blog about embroidery/sewing/quilting tutorials for the beginner ONLY as well as Class Reviews from Craftsy and product reviews. (I don't have it just yet, but I will let you know).
This is going to be slow at first until I get a feel for how it will develop.
My disclaimer to you all is I put a small Craftsy link on here - it is my affiliate link and if you purchase anything after clicking there, I will receive a very small commission from it and it will not cost you anything. I am not expecting much at all here, just why not put a small one here?
Being an affiliate though, I will have special promotions that you can only get from someone who is an affiliate - and I am not the only one. I will probably mention it once a week in a post, but I will NOT hound you all!
Off to do more work now - I have 2 quilts going, plus 2 pouches and getting ready for a very mini-show next Monday.
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